The 8 Dirtiest Things In Your Life (And How to Clean Them)

By Food & Wine
Updated July 31, 2017
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Credit: Courtesy of PureWow
No doubt you’ve read up on the seven dirtiest places in your house. But now it’s time to turn your attention to the things you touch every day, like your smartphone, computer keyboard and/or yoga mat. And guess what? They’re pretty gross. Here’s how to get these items squeaky clean.This article originally appreard on PureWow.com.
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Smartphone

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Harboring ten times more bacteria than the average toilet, your smartphone is a technological petri dish. How to clean it: Get an antimicrobial coating or keep antibacterial wipes in your purse and clean it at least once a day.

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Earbuds

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When these guys get dirty enough, they can even cause ear infections. And we know you’re a nice person, but we recommend keeping these to your ears only. How to clean them: Use an old toothbrush to get off dust and surface dirt. Then wipe down with a washcloth dipped in soap and warm water.

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Computer Keyboard and Mouse

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Stop reading and look down at your keyboard. See any crumbs? Your computer keyboard and mouse can carry five times more bacteria than a toilet seat. How to clean them: Try compressed air and antibacterial wipes. You can also put some standard keyboards in the top rack of the dishwasher using rinse-only mode. And while you’re at it, you should probably give your desk a good wipe down, too.

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Yoga Mat

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Don’t think too hard about how dirty your yoga mat gets—hands, feet, dust, dirt, sweat. Gross. How to clean it: Add two drops of tea tree oil, a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent, to water in a spray bottle and wipe down after each use. And most can also withstand a turn in the washing machine.

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Car Steering Wheel and Gear Shift

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You wash the outside of your car regularly, but we bet you don’t pay as much attention to the inside. How to clean them: Grab the Clorox wipes and start cleaning.

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Toothbrush

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Bacteria is having a heyday on your damp toothbrush. Germs in your bathroom can stay airborne for at least a few hours. Shudder.How to clean it: Throw it in the dishwasher once a week and for quick disinfecting, let it sit in mouthwash for about 30 seconds.

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Reusable Shopping Bags

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You’re doing your part for the environment, but did you ever guess that these might be carrying more fecal matter than your underwear? And at least you wash them. How to clean them: Throw your shopping bags in the wash with your next load of laundry.

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Money

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How to clean them:

Obviously, you can’t. Instead, use your debit card for purchases and download Venmo stat.

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